4 Chinese arrested in Philippine drug bust

September 12th, 5:51 pm

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MANILA, Philippines (AP) — Philippine authorities arrested four Chinese on Friday and seized hundreds of kilograms of crystal methamphetamine and drug ingredients in what could be the year’s biggest drug bust.

Three men from China’s Xiamen city and a woman from Fujian province were arrested in raids on a rented warehouse and a house in northern San Fernando City.

Drug Enforcement Agency head Arturo Cacdac Jr. said at least 461 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine, known as “shabu,” were confiscated, bringing the total value of the haul to at least 2.35 billion pesos ($53 million).

Also seized in the first raid were 10 sacks each containing 25 kilograms (55 pounds) of ephedrine, an ingredient for shabu. Another 29 sacks still needed to be tested.

Operations against the group started six months ago and the bust “is a big blow to syndicates,” Cacdac added.